independence

noun

in·​de·​pen·​dence ˌin-də-ˈpen-dən(t)s 

1

: the quality or state of being independent

2

archaic : competence sense 2

Synonyms of independence

• autonomy
• freedom
• self-sufficiency
• self-reliance

Examples of independence in a Sentence

She asserted her independence from her parents by getting her own apartment.

He has shown a fierce independence of spirit.

A month after independence, elections were held.

Recent Examples on the Web

The Athletic maintains full editorial independence. —Data Skrive, New York Times, 2 Dec. 2025

Some of the predictable changes include hearing loss, more physical aches and pains, a loss of independence and giving up driving. —Allison Aubrey, NPR, 1 Dec. 2025

Guinea-Bissau’s latest coup — the fifth successful one since independence from Portugal in 1974 — also doesn’t follow the regional script led by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. —Tomi Oladipo, semafor.com, 1 Dec. 2025

If Trump wins, the Fed’s vaunted independence to set interest rates without political interference could crumble. —Bryan Mena, CNN Money, 29 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

independ(ent) entry 1 + -ence

Note: Compare slightly earlier dates for Middle French independance, Italian independenza.

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing independence

• declare (one's) independence
• linear independence
• war of independence

Rhymes for independence

• ascendance
• attendance
• dependance
• dependence
• transcendence
• interdependence
• superintendence
• tendance

Kids Definition

independence

noun

in·​de·​pen·​dence ˌin-də-ˈpen-dən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being independent : freedom from outside control or support

Geographical Definition

Independence

geographical name

In·​de·​pen·​dence ˌin-də-ˈpen-dən(t)s 

city in western Missouri east of Kansas City population 116,830